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Magic Kingdom Former Aunt Polly’s Site Moves Forward with New Piston Peak Permit

Magic Kingdom Former Aunt Polly’s Site Moves Forward with New Piston Peak Permit

New Imagineering Permit Filed for Piston Peak Construction at Magic Kingdom

The road to Piston Peak National Park continues to take shape! Walt Disney Imagineering has filed another construction permit for Magic Kingdom’s upcoming Cars-themed expansion, this time targeting the former location of Aunt Polly’s on what was once Tom Sawyer Island.

Related: New Steel Construction Permit Filed for Animal Kingdom Encanto Ride

Magic Kingdom Former Aunt Polly’s Site Moves Forward with New Piston Peak Permit

The newly filed Notice of Commencement covers general construction at 4975C Caribbean Way, the former address of Aunt Polly’s Restaurant. The longtime seasonal dining location was demolished in 2025 along with the rest of Tom Sawyer Island to make way for the massive new Cars-inspired land coming to Frontierland.

For this latest phase of construction, Disney has contracted Phillips, formerly known as Phillips & Jordan. The company specializes in civil construction and infrastructure projects, making it likely this work focuses on foundational site development rather than themed buildings. Given Piston Peak National Park’s planned rivers, waterways, and natural landscapes, the permit could be connected to future water features or other large-scale infrastructure needed for the land.

When Piston Peak National Park opens, guests will be able to experience two all-new attractions. One will be an off-road rally race adventure, while the other will offer a family-friendly experience inspired by the world of Cars. Disney has also introduced Ranger J. Autobahn Woodlore, a brand-new original character inspired by classic Disney ranger Ranger J. Audubon Woodlore, who will help bring the national park setting to life.

Related: EPCOT’s Coral Reef Restaurant Set to Shut Down Temporarily After Summer

Magic Kingdom Former Aunt Polly’s Site Moves Forward with New Piston Peak Permit

Construction around the former Rivers of America continues to move quickly, and each new permit offers another glimpse into the future of one of Magic Kingdom’s largest expansion projects in decades. While there’s still plenty of work ahead, Piston Peak is steadily shifting from blueprints to reality.

Ready to race into your next Walt Disney World vacation? Our friends at Get Away Today can help you save on tickets, resort stays, and vacation packages so you’re ready when Piston Peak National Park opens.

New Steel Construction Permit Filed for Animal Kingdom Encanto Ride

New Steel Construction Permit Filed for Animal Kingdom Encanto Ride

Steel Construction Permit Filed for New Encanto Attraction at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

The transformation of DinoLand U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom into Tropical Americas is picking up steam! Walt Disney Imagineering has filed another construction permit for the area, this time pointing to major work on the upcoming Encanto attraction at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Related: EPCOT’s Coral Reef Restaurant Set to Shut Down Temporarily After Summer

New Steel Construction Permit Filed for Animal Kingdom Encanto Ride ()

The newly filed Notice of Commencement covers general construction at 504 DinoLand Drive, the future home of the Encanto ride. Walt Disney Imagineering has hired Coastal Steel Group for the project, a Central Florida company known for steel fabrication and structural work on numerous Disney projects.

While the permit doesn’t specify exactly what will be installed, Coastal Steel Group specializes in steel fabrication and erection, suggesting that significant structural work is about to begin. That could include building supports, attraction infrastructure, themed elements, or even portions of the ride system itself as construction continues to move forward.

Coastal Steel Group is no stranger to Disney projects, having previously worked on attractions and experiences including Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets, Astro Orbiter, Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, and Disney Cruise Line ships.

Related: Disney Releases Statement on Retirement of Disney’s Grand Floridian Gingerbread House

New Steel Construction Permit Filed for Animal Kingdom Encanto Ride ()

The new Encanto attraction will be one of the signature experiences inside Tropical Americas, the all-new land replacing DinoLand U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. When it opens in 2027, guests will step inside the magical Casita and experience a brand-new adventure inspired by Disney’s beloved animated film. The land will also feature a new Indiana Jones attraction, creating an entirely new corner of the park filled with adventure and storytelling.

If you’re planning to experience Tropical Americas when it opens, our friends at Get Away Today can help you save on your Walt Disney World vacation with great prices on tickets, hotels, and vacation packages.

Disney and Formula 1 Launch Custom Helmet Initiative Benefiting Make-A-Wish

Disney and Formula Launch Custom Helmet Initiative Benefiting Make A Wish ()

Disney, Formula 1, and Make-A-Wish Team Up for Limited-Edition Mickey Racing Helmet Auction

Disney is taking the checkered flag for a great cause! Disney, Formula 1, and Make-A-Wish have announced a unique collaboration that blends the excitement of motorsports with the magic of Mickey Mouse, all to help grant life-changing wishes for children living with critical illnesses.

Related: The Ultimate Disney Coast-to-Coast 4th of July Takeover has Arrived

Disney and Formula Launch Custom Helmet Initiative Benefiting Make A Wish ()

At the heart of the initiative are two custom racing helmets created with Bell Racing. The helmets were designed by Bret Iwan, the official voice of Mickey Mouse, with creative direction from Bobby Kim, Global Creative Director for Disney Consumer Products. The sleek design features a matte black finish accented with bold red and yellow graphics, Mickey Mouse artwork, Formula 1 branding, and a subtle Make-A-Wish star trailing behind Mickey’s shoe as he races forward. Each helmet also comes in a custom display case with a certificate of authenticity signed by both Iwan and Kim.

The first helmet made its debut during the Formula 1 British Grand Prix weekend at Silverstone, where it was signed by several Formula 1 drivers, including Make-A-Wish France ambassador Pierre Gasly, Kimi Antonelli, Charles Leclerc, Lando Norris, and more. Fans will have the opportunity to bid on this one-of-a-kind collectible through F1 Authentics, with auction registration opening July 7 and bidding taking place from July 11 through July 18. Net proceeds will benefit Make-A-Wish International, helping grant wishes for children and families outside the United States.

Disney and Formula Launch Custom Helmet Initiative Benefiting Make A Wish ()

The second helmet won’t be heading to auction just yet. Instead, Disney fans will be able to see it in person during D23: The Ultimate Disney Fan Event, taking place August 14 through 16 in Anaheim, California, where it will be on display throughout the event.

Related: Disney Celebrates America with 24-Hour July 4th Special

Disney and Formula Launch Custom Helmet Initiative Benefiting Make A Wish ()

This collaboration also celebrates the incredible relationship between Disney and Make-A-Wish, which began with the very first official wish granted at Disneyland more than 45 years ago. Since then, Disney has helped Make-A-Wish grant more than 175,000 wishes to children around the world, making this latest collaboration another meaningful milestone in that ongoing partnership.

If you’re planning your own Disney adventure, our friends at Get Away Today can help you save on your next Disneyland or Walt Disney World vacation with fantastic prices on tickets, hotels, and vacation packages.

Disney and Pixar Bring the Magic of Toy Story 5 to Orlando’s Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

Disney and Pixar Bring the Magic of Toy Story to Orlando's Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

Disney and Pixar Bring Toy Story 5 Magic to Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

Disney and Pixar proved that the best premieres are the ones that bring smiles where they’re needed most. Ahead of the release of Toy Story 5, young patients at Orlando Health Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children were treated to a memorable day as Disney, Pixar, and the Starlight Children’s Foundation transformed part of the hospital into a Toy Story Imagination Station.

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Disney and Pixar Bring the Magic of Toy Story to Orlando's Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

The special event gave children and their families the chance to meet beloved Toy Story characters, watch Toy Story 5, take part in drawing activities led by Pixar animators, and enjoy interactive experiences inspired by Woody, Buzz, and the gang. To make the day feel even more like a Hollywood premiere, patients also received Toy Story-themed Starlight Hospital Gowns, including a brand new Woody-inspired design created in collaboration with Disney. The celebration wrapped up with a movie party complete with a screening of Toy Story 5, themed popcorn buckets, posters, merchandise, and plenty of Pixar magic.

Disney and Pixar Bring the Magic of Toy Story to Orlando's Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

The celebration won’t stop in Orlando. Disney announced that more than 400 children’s hospitals worldwide, including over 300 across the United States, will receive Toy Story 5 through its ongoing partnership with the Starlight Children’s Foundation. The initiative helps bring the latest Disney films and character experiences directly to hospitalized children, creating moments of joy during what can be some of their toughest days.

Related: Disney to Auction Off Retiring Theme Park Props from Dinosaur and MuppetVision at D23

Disney and Pixar Bring the Magic of Toy Story to Orlando's Arnold Palmer Hospital for Children

It’s always heartwarming to see Disney use the power of storytelling to brighten the lives of young patients. While Toy Story has spent decades reminding us that toys are there for us when we need them most, this special visit showed that a little Disney magic can go a long way, too.

Whether you’re planning a magical Walt Disney World vacation or your own Toy Story adventure, our friends at Get Away Today can help you plan the perfect getaway with great prices on tickets, hotels, and vacation packages.

Strike a Pose: The New Project Runway Step and Repeat Display Has Arrived at Disney Springs!

Project Runway Step and Repeat Display

Strike a Pose: The New Project Runway Step and Repeat Display Has Arrived at Disney Springs!

If you’ve ever watched Project Runway, sat on your couch in your favorite sweatpants, and thought, “I could absolutely work that runway,” your moment has officially arrived. To celebrate the massive Season 22 premiere hitting Freeform, Hulu, and Disney+ this July, Disney Springs has dropped a brand-new, ultra chic Project Runway step and repeat display. It is the ultimate photo op for anyone looking to channel their inner supermodel without having their look fiercely picked apart by Nina Garcia or Law Roach.

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Project Runway Step and Repeat Display

You can find this fashionable new setup waiting for you over at the West Side of Disney Springs, naturally stationed right near the Disney Style Boutique. The display features a gorgeous, high-fashion backdrop complete with the show’s iconic branding, making it look exactly like you’ve just stepped off the official red carpet. Whether you are rocking a custom made fit or just sporting a classic Disney spirit jersey and some sparkly Minnie ears, it is the perfect spot to serves looks, snap a few photos, and flex for the grid.

The timing couldn’t be more perfect, either. This interactive little marketing gem is the ultimate hype builder for what is being called the biggest season in the show’s history. Season 22 is breaking records with a massive cast of 22 designers, and the teasers have already promised incredible crossovers, including a runway takeover by the cast of Dancing with the Stars.

Project Runway Step and Repeat Display

So, next time you are strolling through Disney Springs for some shopping or a bite to eat, make sure to take a quick detour to the West Side. Gather your friends, practice your fiercest smize, and make Christian Siriano proud. Just remember to strike your best pose before Heidi Klum gives you the dreaded “Auf Wiedersehen!”

First Trailer for Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True Out Now

First Trailer for Holiday Ever After A Disney World Wish Come True Out Now

Disney Unveils First Trailer for ‘Holiday Ever After’

The magic is officially happening! Hallmark has just dropped the first official trailer for its highly anticipated upcoming film, Holiday Ever After: A Disney World Wish Come True. The sneak peek gives fans a beautiful look at the characters soaking up the magic right inside the Walt Disney World Resort. Even better? Disney has confirmed that a line of special commemorative merchandise will be released alongside the movie!

Related – Disney Releases First Posters for Hallmark Holiday Ever After

First Trailer for Holiday Ever After A Disney World Wish Come True Out Now

The trailer introduces us to Lindsey, played by Hallmark favorite Lacey Chabert, as she heads to Walt Disney World for a magical Christmas vacation. But the festive cheer takes an unexpected turn when she bumps into Philip (Travis Van Winkle)—a guy she just had a disastrous first date with. Naturally, her family waste no time teasing her about the obvious sparks between them, jokingly comparing their bumpy romance to iconic Disney couples!

First Trailer for Holiday Ever After A Disney World Wish Come True Out Now

Adding to the star power, the film features fan-favorites Richard Kind and Asher Alexander, along with a fun cameo role from Patrick Renna. First announced back in December, the production shot on location across the Walt Disney World Resort, officially wrapping up filming in February. Fans can look forward to watching the holiday magic unfold when the movie debuts later this year as part of the Hallmark Channel’s 17th annual Countdown to Christmas lineup!

See the trailer below:

YouTube player

Soarin’ Across America Debuts TODAY in Disneyland

soarin

Disneyland Debuts New Soarin’ Across America Today

In celebration of America’s monumental 250th anniversary, Disneyland Resort has debuted an all-new limited-time aerial adventure: Soarin’ Across America! Starting today, July 2, guests visiting Disney California Adventure Park can take flight and experience the breathtaking beauty of the American landscape like never before.

Related – Patriotic Decorations Added for Soarin’ Across America at EPCOT

soarin

This new iteration of the fan-favorite attraction takes riders on a stunning journey featuring more than a dozen iconic sights and scents. Disney has captured the true spirit of the U.S. coast-to-coast, meaning you’ll get to experience:

  • The vibrant autumn colors of the American heartland
  • The serene beauty of a Southern bayou
  • The sweeping, majestic Great Plains of the Western frontier
  • The untouched northern wilderness
  • Sunlit island shores and so much more!

And yes, it wouldn’t be Soarin’ without those legendary, immersive scents! Get ready to smell the landscapes as you glide gracefully above them.

The fun doesn’t stop when the ride ends. To make this limited-time celebration even more interactive, Disney is launching a special National Geographic trivia game integration right inside the Disneyland Resort app beginning July 16. It’s the perfect way to pass the time in line and test your knowledge of the incredible landmarks you’re about to see from above!

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If you are planning to visit the Disneyland Resort over the holiday weekend, you are in for a truly patriotic treat. Alongside festive, celebratory decor and themed entertainment, the resort will play host to a spectacular lineup of live performances by U.S. military bands:

  • July 2: US Army Field Band Jazz Ambassadors
  • July 4: 1st Marine Division Band and 1st Marine Division Band – Jazz Combo
  • July 5: 1st Marine Division Band and 1st Marine Division Band – Brass Band

Whether you’re tapping your toes to world-class jazz or soaring high above the Purple Mountain Majesties, Disney California Adventure is the ultimate place to celebrate America’s 250th.

Because Soarin’ Across America is only available for a limited time, you’ll want to catch your flight soon before it leaves the hangar!

Contact our partners at Get Away Today to get your next Disneyland vacation booked!

Disneyland Moves Closer to Opening New Avengers Campus Rides with Specialized Team

Disneyland Moves Closer to Opening New Avengers Campus Rides with Specialized Team

Disneyland Assembles Team for New Avengers Campus Rides

Disneyland is officially one step closer to launching its massive $60+ million Avengers Campus expansion! The project, which will double the size of the Marvel-themed land at Disney California Adventure, just reached a major milestone: assembling the specialized crew tasked with getting two brand-new attractions ready for opening day. A team of 20 attraction leaders has been chosen for the exclusive “test-and-adjust” crew, who will handle the hands-on work of prepping the highly anticipated superhero rides for guests.

Disneyland Moves Closer to Opening New Avengers Campus Rides with Specialized Team

Construction kicked off in January on the massive expansion project, which will bring two brand-new attractions to the land: Avengers Infinity Defense and Stark Flight Lab. While official opening dates haven’t been announced yet, the newly selected working leads will assemble in the coming months to collaborate closely with Walt Disney Imagineering. Together, this specialized team will put both cutting-edge rides through their paces, ensuring everything is perfectly calibrated before the public finally gets to experience them.

This collaborative testing phase doubles as a crucial hands-on tutorial for the crew. By working with Imagineering to test every component, troubleshoot technical bugs, and refine daily operations, the test-and-adjust team will develop firsthand expertise. Ultimately, this deep dive ensures they will become the resident experts in operating both cutting-edge attractions smoothly on opening day and beyond.

Disneyland Moves Closer to Opening New Avengers Campus Rides with Specialized Team

To build this powerhouse crew, Disney pulled elite talent from themed lands across both Disneyland and Disney California Adventure—including Tomorrowland, Pixar Pier, Cars Land, and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Leading the charge is 24-year Disneyland veteran Mark Diwas, who brings massive launch experience to the table, having previously helped open Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run in 2019 and Finding Nemo Submarine Voyage in 2007.

“I can’t believe we’re finally here choosing the test-and-adjust team,” Diwas shared in a statement, reflecting on the major milestone.

Disneyland Moves Closer to Opening New Avengers Campus Rides with Specialized Team

When the expansion opens, guests will have two groundbreaking experiences to choose from. The Avengers Infinity Defense dark ride will utilize a blend of massive physical sets and cutting-edge digital media to send riders on a multiverse-hopping adventure to remote worlds and alternate realities. Over at Stark Flight Lab, guests will step directly into Tony Stark’s high-tech workshop, where they will experience simulated flight on an auto factory-style robotic arm that mimics the sensation of flying like Iron Man.

Disneyland Moves Closer to Opening New Avengers Campus Rides with Specialized Team

To bring even more cinematic magic to the land, Robert Downey Jr. is officially reprising his legendary role as Tony Stark/Iron Man for both attractions—an exciting return that comes ahead of his highly anticipated debut as Doctor Doom in Avengers: Doomsday this December.

Ready to book your next Disneyland vacation? Contact our partners at Get Away Today!

Tiana & Rapunzel Joining New Disney Princess Cavalcade in Disneyland Paris

Tiana & Rapunzel Joining New Disney Princess Cavalcade in Disneyland Paris

Disneyland Paris Adds Tiana and Rapunzel to New Princess Cavalcade

Disneyland Paris just dropped a sneak peek behind the magic of their all-new Disney Princess Cavalcade! Alongside the exciting preview, they revealed that fan-favorites Tiana and Rapunzel will be joining Raya and Moana in the upcoming lineup.

Tiana & Rapunzel Joining New Disney Princess Cavalcade in Disneyland Paris

When the cavalcade was first announced earlier this year, Moana was the lone princess leading the charge. Raya was later added to the lineup alongside the official premiere date of July 24. Guests can catch the new processional at Disney Adventure World—the newly rebranded Walt Disney Studios Park, which received its fresh name to celebrate the grand opening of the World of Frozen expansion.

Tiana & Rapunzel Joining New Disney Princess Cavalcade in Disneyland Paris

Alongside the exciting news that Tiana and Rapunzel are joining Raya and Moana, Disneyland Paris gave fans a sneak peek at the cavalcade’s uplifting new anthem, “Make My Way.”

Overseeing every moving part of the production is producer Claire Salmon. She noted that her team is laser-focused on delivering an unforgettable guest experience on time and within budget. “To achieve this… you have to ensure the floats arrive exactly when rehearsals begin, that performers are cast and well-practiced indoors beforehand, and that every little preparation is locked in,” Salmon shared. “I often say this, but it’s true: it really is like being an orchestra conductor!”

Tiana & Rapunzel Joining New Disney Princess Cavalcade in Disneyland Paris

Marking a historic milestone, this will be the first-ever cavalcade to debut at Disney Adventure World. “It’s a real challenge to create a live performance for a venue that didn’t even exist a year ago,” Salmon noted. “We had to look ahead and imagine how best to incorporate it even before we’d seen it finished.” Far from a standard parade, the experience blends a traditional processional with a vibrant “show stop,” allowing the floats to pause so performers can interact directly with the crowd.

According to Salmon, the cavalcade will follow a unique “round-trip” route. It will travel from the entrance of the upcoming Lion King-themed land to The Regal View Restaurant & Lounge before circling back to its starting point, where the highly anticipated interactive show stop will take place.

Tiana & Rapunzel Joining New Disney Princess Cavalcade in Disneyland Paris

“This will give spectators the chance to enjoy the spectacle twice over,” Salmon explained. “First on the outward journey, and then again on the return journey, as they get to see these magnificent floats both ways.”

Testing for the ambitious project began in mid-June when the team rolled the first floats onto the park grounds. They carefully timed and measured the procession’s speed to make sure the technical realities aligned perfectly with the directors’ creative vision. After making a few minor adjustments, Salmon noted that the hard work paid off: “Above all, we made sure the cavalcade fitted perfectly into the surroundings, as if it had always been there.”

The stunning floats were designed by Thomas Gallou, who previously crafted the boats for A Celebration in Arendelle. Newly released behind-the-scenes photos offer a sneak peek at The Princess and the Frog float, showcasing a vibrant display of musical instruments and an illustration of two frogs kissing.

Tiana & Rapunzel Joining New Disney Princess Cavalcade in Disneyland Paris

Because the cavalcade runs through a fairly neutral area of the park, creating a powerful visual identity was critical. “We needed a very strong theme for the floats and the performers, particularly through the costumes,” Salmon explained.

Music plays an equally vital role in bringing that magic to life. “We have taken particular care to ensure we have sufficient resources to provide the best possible experience,” Salmon said, noting that the floats feature their own built-in audio systems alongside support from the parade units. “From the moment the floats first set off, we made sure that the various sound sources were well balanced throughout the route… It will be particularly impressive when the cavalcade stops and the performers invite the children to come and dance with them. It’ll be total immersion!”

Ready to book your next Disney vacation? Contact our partners at Get Away Today!

Step Into the Hundred Acre Wood With These Winnie the Pooh and Eeyore Sherpa Slippers

Winnie the Pooh and Eeyore Sherpa Slippers

Step Into the Hundred Acre Wood With These Winnie the Pooh and Eeyore Sherpa Slippers

Get ready to take your cozy game straight to the Hundred Acre Wood! If your feet are always freezing or you just need an excuse to lounge around in ultimate Disney style, you need to check out the new Winnie the Pooh and Eeyore Sherpa Slippers. They are the definition of pure comfort, looking like a warm hug for your toes.

Related – BoxLunch Just Dropped the Cutest Disney Halloween and Fall Home Decor

These slippers are made entirely from super soft sherpa material that makes walking around the house feel like stepping on a cloud. Modeled after everyone’s favorite honey loving bear and delightfully gloomy donkey, they feature adorable figural ears poking up and ultra-plush faux fur accents. To top it off, each pair comes with beautifully embroidered lettering of their names so you can show off your classic Disney fandom with every step.

Winnie the Pooh and Eeyore Sherpa Slippers

If you are looking to snag a pair for your next movie marathon or lazy Sunday morning, these beauties retail for $29.90. You won’t find them just anywhere though, they are available exclusively online at BoxLunch, so make sure to add them to your cart before they disappear!

Credit: Boxlunch Gifts

Wrap Yourself in Disney Magic with the Fantasyland Castle Throw Blanket

Fantasyland Castle Throw Blanket

Wrap Yourself in Disney Magic with the Fantasyland Castle Throw Blanket

If you’ve ever found yourself walking down Main Street, U.S.A., staring at that breathtaking castle and wishing you could just wrap yourself up in that magical feeling forever, the Disney Store just dropped the next best thing. Say hello to the Fantasyland Castle Quilt Throw Blanket, the absolute ultimate way to bring that theme park nostalgia straight to your living room couch.

Related – Sip in the Magic: Two New Disney Parks Mugs Just Dropped at the Disney Store!

This isn’t just your run of the mill blanket; it’s a total love letter to Disney Parks. Designed in a gorgeous, rustic patchwork style, one side features a whimsical patch like design packed with iconic Disney symbols that will have you instantly reminiscing about your favorite vacation memories. Right in the center, there’s a beautiful, stitch inspired screen art piece that reads, ”Home Is Where the Castle Is” because honestly, isn’t it? If you ever want a change of pace, just flip it over! The reverse side boasts a stunning allover pattern entirely dedicated to Fantasyland Castles, giving you two magical looks in one cozy package.

Whether you’re gearing up for a Disney movie marathon, looking for the perfect housewarming gift for your fellow Disney obsessed bestie, or just need to level up your home decor, this quilt has you covered. It retails for $99.99 and is available online right now at the Disney Store. Go ahead and treat yourself, your couch is practically begging for that fairytale upgrade!

Credit: Disney Store

The Ultimate Disney Coast-to-Coast 4th of July Takeover has Arrived

disney celebrates america

Pixie Dust & Patriotism: Mickey and Friends Lead America’s Magical 250th Birthday Bash

The Walt Disney Company has officially kicked off an expansive, company-wide initiative to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. Under the banner “Disney Celebrates America,” the entertainment giant is launching a massive weekend of coordinated nationwide activations, live events, and media broadcasts that bridge its world-class theme parks directly with its global streaming and television platforms.

Starting today, the festivities will showcase the full scale of Disney magic, creating a unified holiday experience that spans from coast-to-coast theme resorts to a historic 24-hour media marathon.

Related-Disney Celebrates America with 24-Hour July 4th Special

disney celebrates america epcot

Coast-to-Coast Spectacles at Disney Parks

Disney’s domestic theme parks are serving as the ground-floor hubs for the historic semiquincentennial celebration, offering guests immersive patriotic experiences, military flyovers, and brand-new attractions.

Walt Disney World Resort (Florida)

Guests in Central Florida will be treated to a massive slate of patriotic entertainment throughout the holiday weekend, highlighted by:

disney celebrates america wdw
  • Aerial Flyovers: A July 4 military flyover by the U.S. Air Force Reserve over Magic Kingdom and EPCOT, scheduled to begin at 10:30 a.m. ET (weather permitting).
  • Patriotic Soundtracks & Spectacles: Live performances by the world-renowned Voices of Liberty and the United States Air Force Band of the West.
disney celebrates america fireworks
  • Nighttime Enhancements: The Celebrate America! Fireworks and DJ dance parties, patriotic overlays for the Electrical Water Pageant, and red, white, and blue custom lighting transforming Spaceship Earth.
disney celebrates america portraits
  • Honoring Veterans: An extended run of the Portraits of Courage exhibit, which honors post-9/11 military veterans.
disneyland disney celebrates america

Disneyland Resort (California)

On the West Coast, the celebration officially anchors around a major attraction debut:

disney celebrates america disneyland
  • Soarin’ Across America: Debuting today at Disney California Adventure Park, this completely reimagined attraction takes guests on an aerial journey showcasing the country’s most iconic landmarks and natural beauty. To complement the ride, a National Geographic trivia game integration will launch within the Disneyland Resort app on July 16.
mickey and minnie
  • Holiday Entertainment: The return of the Celebrate America! fireworks spectacular, a special World of Color pre-show, an enhanced flag retreat ceremony on July 4, and a star-spangled cavalcade featuring Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse in brand-new patriotic attire.

Beyond the Parks: The celebration is also heading out to sea. Disney Cruise Line is integrating the semiquincentennial into its global itineraries, featuring themed dining experiences and onboard holiday festivities for travelers worldwide.

Disney Announces Schedule and Streaming Details for the Disney Celebrates America Special

Unprecedented 24-Hour Broadcast Coverage

While millions celebrate inside the parks, Disney is taking the celebration to audiences nationwide with a historic, cross-platform media event.

Beginning the evening of Friday, July 3, and running through Saturday, July 4, Disney will present a seamless 24-hour broadcast spanning ABC, Disney+, Hulu, ESPN, National Geographic, FX, Freeform, and ABC News Live.

Anchored by World News Tonight’s David Muir and featuring top talent from across the company’s networks, the broadcast will feature live reporting from all 50 states.

Broadcast Highlights Include:

  • Nashville’s Star-Spangled Bash: A massive live primetime special from downtown Nashville, featuring a powerhouse concert lineup and one of the largest fireworks and drone spectacles in U.S. history.
  • Immersive Storytelling: Documentaries and segments exploring American history, innovation, and natural wonders in collaboration with National Geographic.
  • Sports Culture Celebration: A special two-hour edition of SportsCenter on July 4 dedicated to the moments and people that shaped American sports, alongside a brand-new digital series debuting on ESPN.com.

Related-New Disney Celebrates America Holiday Special Coming to ABC Disney Plus and Hulu

disney celebrates america mickey

A Fully Connected Disney Experience

The “Disney Celebrates America” campaign represents a massive logistical and creative feat, demonstrating the unique synergy of Disney’s three primary business segments: Entertainment, Sports, and Experiences.

By seamlessly connecting live, on-the-ground events at its theme parks with an all-hands-on-deck broadcast across its streaming and linear networks, Disney aims to turn a single holiday weekend into a massive, shared national community event. Who’s ready to celebrate the USA?!